S2000 Forums - View Single Post - buying a s2k, where to look for weak spots?

MattG · 01-07-2006, 05:26 AM

I would suggest:
- Any bodywork /respray etc.
- Any modifications (search for some pics of a standard engine bay if you are not sure)
- Check oil levels (should be checked every time you put petrol in car)
- If possible try to listen to how a properly maintained car sounds like
so you can assess if there are any strange noises from engine.
- Check the service logbooks
- Check gearbox operation
- Oil leaks
- Check for roof leaks (annoying at the very least) and roof operation.
maybe sure latches are not rattling when driving.
- Condition of leather seats (usually indicative of how the car has been treated and looked after)
- Make sure tyres are not very worn. The stock S02 tyres on earlier models lose grip well before the tyre is worn out. You do NOT want to drive in the rain with worn S02s.

If they regularly service the car at Honda, you may be able to get the vehicle history (about what services have been done etc) from Honda.

The main thing I would look for first is the service history/logbook to make sure all services have been done.

Genearlly these are very reliable cars (as are most Hondas). I have heard of a number of occasions where people have mechanically over-revved the engine, and also a couple of instances of cylinder #4 failure.

01-07-2006, 05:26 AM	#7 (permalink)
MattG Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Sydney, Australia Posts: 361	I would suggest: - Any bodywork /respray etc. - Any modifications (search for some pics of a standard engine bay if you are not sure) - Check oil levels (should be checked every time you put petrol in car) - If possible try to listen to how a properly maintained car sounds like so you can assess if there are any strange noises from engine. - Check the service logbooks - Check gearbox operation - Oil leaks - Check for roof leaks (annoying at the very least) and roof operation. maybe sure latches are not rattling when driving. - Condition of leather seats (usually indicative of how the car has been treated and looked after) - Make sure tyres are not very worn. The stock S02 tyres on earlier models lose grip well before the tyre is worn out. You do NOT want to drive in the rain with worn S02s. If they regularly service the car at Honda, you may be able to get the vehicle history (about what services have been done etc) from Honda. The main thing I would look for first is the service history/logbook to make sure all services have been done. Genearlly these are very reliable cars (as are most Hondas). I have heard of a number of occasions where people have mechanically over-revved the engine, and also a couple of instances of cylinder #4 failure.